Opportunities for play in paediatric healthcare environments: a scoping review.
Clarissa Yu, Sophie Weaver, Meaghan Walker and 3 others
PMID 38872999WHAT IT FOUND
Play spaces in hospitals help children cope and connect, but current designs often ignore adolescents and children with disabilities.
Therapists should advocate for play opportunities in general areas like hallways and bedrooms, not just designated rooms.
Key findings
01Children and families value play spaces for social connection, distraction from illness, and a sense of normalcy.
02Most reviewed studies focused on children under 12, leaving the specific play needs and preferences of adolescents largely unexamined.
03No studies in the review discussed accessible or inclusive designs that account for the presence and diversity of childhood disability.
STILL TO COME
How it was doneWhat they foundWhat it means for PTsWhat it means for OTsWhat it means for SLPs
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What it does not show
The review is limited to 18 studies, which may not capture the full breadth of global research on paediatric play spaces. Geographic bias exists, with most studies conducted in North America and Australia, leaving gaps in understanding from other regions. The literature does not address the specific experiences of children with disabilities, so recommendations for inclusive design are based on gaps rather than direct evidence. Adolescent perspectives are significantly underrepresented, with no studies focusing exclusively on children aged 12-18.
Declared interests
The authors declare no conflicts of interest.
The easy way to misread this
Do not assume that designated playrooms are sufficient or that current designs meet the needs of all patients. The review shows these spaces often exclude adolescents and children with disabilities, and that play opportunities are needed throughout the hospital environment, not just in specific rooms.